Tengrinews.kz - Residents of Petropavlovsk are struggling to spend time outdoors as swarms of mosquitoes and gnats have taken over the city, citing Channel Seven.
According to the channel, the mass emergence of insects is linked to the recent spring floods. Locals say it's becoming increasingly difficult to breathe outdoors, as the insects fly into people’s mouths and noses. In addition, mosquitoes are biting aggressively.
“Our children have been bitten all over. The midges and mosquitoes are horrible. As soon as the sun begins to set, to be honest, the mosquitoes come flying in by the dozens—whole swarms,” one resident shared.
The report notes that 20 million tenge has been allocated from the city budget this year for insect control. However, heavy rainfall has disrupted timely disinfection efforts. So far, treatments are being carried out in densely populated areas, including parks, recreation spots, and the outskirts of the city.
“In total, 600 hectares across the city are subject to treatment. The work will continue until September, with multiple rounds of spraying planned. Overall, more than 2,000 hectares are expected to be treated by the end of the season,” said Asem Aitulova, spokesperson for the Petropavlovsk akim’s office.
Previously, Astana's akimat announced that the city launched mosquito control measures.